Construction of a large, horseshoe-shaped bench outside the main entrance, gifted by the Marquette Parent Organization (MPO), began on Monday, March 24.
MPO president Rachel Pereira said the gift was coordinated by the Class of 2024 parents.
“Most classes fundraise for four years to just put on the Senior Celebration that happens that one night after graduation,” Pereira said, “This particular class had leftover funds that they didn’t use in a pretty significant amount, and they decided they wanted to leave something at the school that was kind of a lasting gift.”
Pereira said parents of the Class of 2024 worked with Principal Dr. Tracey Waeckerle, and it was determined that an MHS-themed seating arrangement at the entrance would have the greatest positive impact. The parents then did much of the work in finding a contractor and securing an agreement.
The total cost of the project is approximately $13,000.
“There used to be a cement planter box there that had bushes. When they did some updates to the bridge and everything that was torn out, it was really just an underutilized space, so I think that this was always the vision,” Pereira said.
Construction was originally anticipated to begin over Spring Break, but it was delayed due to weather conditions.
“It’s something that is very much needed and appreciated and can be utilized over the years to come, so we’re just happy to support and hope that all the students enjoy it,” Pereira said.
Pereira said she and Dr. Waeckerle discussed creating a “wish list” of school-improvement projects last year. Funds earned from the School Store and additional MPO activities, apart from those designated for the senior classes, have been earmarked for future projects.
Emilie Bernstein, sophomore, said she thinks the bench will provide an ideal resting place for people after school.
Bernstein said she also appreciates the horseshoe design.
“It represents our school well,” Bernstein said.
Dr. Waeckerle said administrators work with the MPO every year for building improvement projects around the school.
“The signs that are like on the windows of the Theater and on the windows of the gymnasium was an MPO gift, the wrap on the poles in the commons was an MPO gift, and the tree that was planted outside with the benches right in front of the stadium was an MPO gift,” Dr. Waeckerle said.
Dr. Waeckerle said this project is essential to add some seating options and replace what was lost in that area after the bridge to the entrance was rebuilt two years ago.
“I’m just excited for kids to have a place to sit out there,” Dr. Waeckerle said. “The weather’s getting nicer, and it’ll be a good place to be able to wait for rides and hopefully be a little congregating area for students.”
Connor Robinson, sophomore, said he thinks the new seating area will look good, though he doesn’t anticipate using it often.
“I think it’s really just for aesthetics, honestly,” Robinson said. “I know some people get here really early, and it might be nice to have a spot to sit outside or people who leave later and wait for their parents to pick them up.”
